911 Telecommunicator

Because of the nature of the 911 operator and police/fire dispatcher, not everyone is cut out to do this job. We have found that successful 911 personnel have the following skills or abilities:

• ability to handle stressful situations
• ability to effectively prioritize information and events
• a respect for private confidential information
• being a team player
• an interest in serving the needs of others
• a logical, rational approach to solving problems
• above average abiltiy to multitask under stress
• above average mental ability
• high degree of self-discipline to organize and prioritize each days job duties
• a confident ability to control the actions of others
• an even-paced persistence, an easy-going, laid-back personality

Job duties include:

• Answer telephone requests for service from the public, other agencies and officials.
• Obtain complete, accurate and appropriate information from the calling party.
• Communicate effectively with various types of callers, such as those that are emotionally upset, abusive, a nuisance, non-English speaking, TDD, intoxicated, mentally unstable, suicidal, speech impaired, children or elderly.
• Summarize information for broadcasting, using clear, concise and appropriate language in an organized, complete and accurate manner and communicate effectively with field units.
• Monitor and accurately update status information regarding field units and incidents constantly keeping responder safety in mind.
• Basic staffing must be maintained at all times. Therefore, it is required that employees must be available for overtime assignments.

Read the Human Resources job description.

If you feel you meet the requirements to become a telecommunicator, please contact the Human Resources Department with the City of Springfield at 864-1607. For your convenience, when applications are being accepted, you can also apply on-line.

Interviewing Tips

1. Be prepared by finding out as much as you can about the position.
2. Be prepared to talk about your past experience, education, skills and abilities as they relate to the position. Past experiences can include customer service, high public contact, and other related experience applicable to the 911 Telecommunicator position. Don't forget related educational experiences!
3. Think of your experience, skills and abilities as a product and market them to the interviewer.
4. Be sure to fully explain your skills and abilities even if the interviewer is familiar with your background and resume. Don't assume that an interviewer will just know that you are the best candidate.
5. Organize your thoughts before answering a question. Take a moment to gather your thoughts when necessary.
6. Have confidence in yourself and your qualifications.
7. If you do not hear or understand a question, ask the interviewer to repeat it.
8. Practice before the interview. Anticipate questions you may be asked and practice answering them out loud prior to the interview.
9. Dress appropriately - always be well groomed.
10. Be prompt - plan to arrive early for the interview to allow time to find parking, to locate the appropriate office, and to complete any necessary paperwork.
11. Remember to maintain good posture and body language.

If you would like assistance in preparing for the interview, let the professionals help you! Please contact Wilda Taylor (417-887-4343) at the Missouri Career Center to set up a mock interview and to practice your skills!